THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said Tuesday it completed a P36-million regional evacuation center in Catbalogan, Samar and the P96.50-million road dike project in Gubat, Sorsogon.
The DPWH said the new regional evacuation center in Catbalogan, Samar has been turned over to the local government.
“Assistant District Engineer Ruben D. delos Reyes of DPWH Samar 2nd District Engineering Office led the turnover ceremony of the new facility together with representatives from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Regional Office 8 and local officials of Catbalogan City,” the department said in a statement Tuesday.
The department added: “It can accommodate a maximum of 150 households from the city or neighboring towns.”
The building project covers the construction of a pharmacy, toilets, and laundry areas, among others.
“The construction of the complex will help reduce or prevent casualties and lessen the physical impact that may affect the health of the residents,” Mr. delos Reyes was quoted as saying.
The department added: “The construction of the dike road was completed by DPWH Regional Office 5 in October 2019 in the amount of P96.50-million funded by the 2018 General Appropriations Act.”
“The project also covers the provision of shoulder, lined canal, rock and earthworks, guardrails, slope protection, and deflector,” it added.
The DPWH said the project is a “two-in-one road and dike project” situated along the coastal barangays of Panganiban, Pinontingan, and Ariman in Gubat.
Public Works Secretary Mark A. Villar said: “Originally aimed to protect this coastal area from flooding and rising seas, as well as provide alternative road to motorists, this 374-linear meter road dike is now attracting tourists as it showcases scenic views of the sea.”
The department also reported Tuesday that the rehabilitation of the 8.24-kilometer San Luis-Binicalan Road in Agusan del Sur, which is worth P147.75 million, is now “79% complete.” — Arjay L. Balinbin
